Dispersed camping options near Ashdown, Arkansas include both state park facilities and private campgrounds. The area sits in southwest Arkansas at approximately 335 feet elevation with a humid subtropical climate. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F from June through September, while winter nights can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Millwood State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access with one camper noting it has "clean facilities and excellent fishing." The lake supports various fish species and provides bank fishing options throughout the camping area.
Kayaking on Mountain Fork River: For paddling enthusiasts, water recreation extends beyond Millwood Lake. A visitor to Beavers Bend State Park Campground reported, "We also went kayaking in mountain fork river. That was so much fun and beautiful as well."
Wildlife watching: The area attracts bird watchers seeking specific species. One camper at Beard's Bluff Park mentioned, "There were lots of bird watchers during our trip in May but I forget what they were looking for." At Cottonshed Park, visitors might "even get to see the Great White Pelicans."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Beard's Bluff Park receives praise for its well-designed sites. A camper described it as having "well spaced sites. All with some lake view or on the lake. Many sites are pull thru." This setup provides privacy and scenic views.
Clean facilities: Cottonshed Park maintains high standards according to visitors who note, "All the facilities are clean!!! The park staff is always friendly and welcoming. The lots are spacious and well spread out."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. At White Cliffs Park, campers have access to "clean bathrooms, level pad, a little narrow, picnic table, bbq pit, and a large hook to hang stuff" while Millwood State Park features a "big playground for kids."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Millwood Landing Golf & RV Resort, a camper reported, "Cell phone signal for T-Mobile is non existent. Verizon is AWFUL. AT&T is bad but doable."
Road noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At Texarkana KOA, a visitor noted, "Traffic noise is constant and LOUD," which could affect light sleepers or those seeking quiet.
Wildlife awareness: Alligators inhabit some waterways in the region. Cottonshed Park posts warnings with signs stating "BEWARE OF ALLIGATORS," requiring visitors to maintain vigilance when near water.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. At Clear Spring, "There is a large beach across from the campground" that provides swimming options during warmer months.
Swimming options: When temperatures rise, families appreciate water access. One visitor to Texarkana KOA mentioned the campground "has a pool and it is used," offering an alternative to lake swimming.
Site selection for privacy: For families wanting separation from other campers, strategic site selection helps. A visitor to Millwood State Park recommended, "Stay in Site 15 for 4 days and will go back soon to Site 17 on the water. Kids had a great time."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Not all sites offer level pads. One RVer at Texarkana KOA noted, "Sites are gravel and very level, did not have to use our automatic levelers, impressed."
Hookup placement: Some campgrounds have inconvenient utility placement. At White Cliffs Park, a camper mentioned "the water and power were across the pad which was not a big deal but we did not have a long enough extension cord to reach the tent for the air mattress."
Weather preparedness: Summer heat requires cooling capacity. An RVer warned that during July, "At 7 PM it was still 100 but went out and got some video and photos," suggesting air conditioning is essential for summer camping comfort.
